Rescued Kogi school victims receiving care — Police

Four students, a school principal, and a National Examinations Council staff member abducted from an examination center in Kogi State have been successfully rescued. The victims were taken on Tuesday when armed bandits attacked Government Secondary School, Olowa Agbajo, in Dekina Local Government Area.

The rescue operation was a coordinated effort by security operatives, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigerian Army, local vigilantes, and intelligence assets. The deployment of these forces followed an order from the state governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo.

Commissioner of Police, Bello Kankarofi, confirmed the rescue on Friday, stating that all four abducted victims were found alive. He detailed the incident, noting that the attack occurred during the ongoing NECO examination for ten special candidates. The abducted included the principal, Elder Daniel Iyanda; NECO official Mr. Solomon Peter; and two female candidates, Miss Dorcas Sunday and another whose surname is unknown.

“

We are gathered here today to brief the public on the unfortunate abduction that occurred on Tuesday, 14th July, 2026, at Government Secondary School, Olowa Agbajo, in Dekina Local Government Area, as well as the successful rescue of all the victims through the coordinated efforts of security agencies.

Following an on-the-spot assessment by the Commissioner of Police, the Commander of the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Lokoja, Brigadier General Kasim Sidi, and the State Security Adviser to the Governor, Commander Jerry Omodara (Rtd), additional tactical teams were deployed. Intensive bush-combing operations and intelligence gathering intensified the pressure on the kidnappers.

The victims were rescued on Thursday evening and have since been reunited with the appropriate authorities. They are currently receiving necessary care and support, according to police statements.

“

I am pleased to inform you that these concerted efforts yielded the desired result. At about 7:45 p.m. on Thursday, 16th July, 2026, all four abducted victims were successfully rescued alive.